FORT MYERS — Francisco Liriano threw about 45 pitches in a live batting practice session today and appears ready to pitch in a spring training game sometime later this week.

“I didn’t feel any pain, any soreness at all,” Liriano said. “I feel real good.”

It was Liriano’s second live batting practice session and fourth throwing session from a mound since he arrived in spring training. He is making his way back from Tommy John elbow surgery.

Liriano said he feels like he’s throwing his fastball and change-up well but is still holding back with his slider. That explained what those of us behind the batting cage saw, as his fastball and change-up looked pretty good, while his slider was wild and ineffective.

“I’m ready,” he said. “I don’t know what the next step is. They haven’t told me anything yet. Maybe in a game.”

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